Pulmonary Rehabilitation

The Pulmonary Rehabilitation program of Hamlin Memorial Hospital is designed for patients with Chronic Respiratory Disease (COPD), which include

EmphysemaChronic BronchitisPulmonary FibrosisOther various conditions

The program combines education, exercise, and emotional support into a comprehensive 12-week program. The goal is to help the patient understand and cope with the disease and function more comfortably and independently at home and return the participant to the highest possible functional capacity allowed by his pulmonary handicap.

Medical research has found that pulmonary rehabilitation can help you:

improve your energy levelsbe more activereduce breathlessness and other troublesome symptomsunderstand how medications, diet, airborne irritants, and * stress can all affect breathing

Upon your doctor's referral the pulmonary rehab staff will evaluate you. Once admitted, you will be oriented to the program and participate in educational activities and a progressive exercise program. You will attend the program three days a week for twelve weeks. Your exercise program will begin at a level based on your ability and will start slowly and progress toward your goal each week. Exercise will consist of aerobic conditioning activities such as paced walking or exercise bicycling and other exercises to improve your strength and endurance. Attention will be given to both upper and lower body muscle groups.

Education activities will cover a wide range of topics designed to help you understand your disease and give you the information you need to improve function and feel better.

Our staff includes nurses, physical therapist and a dietitian who works under the direction of your physician, and will consult with him/her as needed.

Pulmonary rehabilitation services may be covered by your insurance plan. Prior approval may be required. Our friendly patient representatives will assist you in determining your benefits.